In the grittiness of Trenton there are jewels – incredible start-ups, artists and ideas playing out, said David Henderson.
He and his husband, John Hatch, want to help those artists – both emerging and established, while working to preserve the history and culture of this vibrant community. When the arts thrive, cities thrive, said John.
In 2018, David and John created the Trenton Arts Fund at the Princeton Area Community Foundation. The Field of Interest Fund will award grants for operating support and special projects to arts, cultural and historic organizations in Trenton. A five person committee – John, David, June Ballinger, John Clarke and Cate Litvak – will make those grant recommendations.
John and David chose the Community Foundation, where John sits on the Board of Trustees, because they knew they would benefit from its strong investment management and administrative support. They also hope to collaborate with other Community Foundation fundholders, and together, make an even bigger impact in Trenton.
“This is really about supporting and nurturing emerging artists, as well as supporting some really great initiatives,’’ said David. “Trenton was hugely important to our nation’s history – from the U.S. Revolution right through the Industrial Revolution. That is largely uncurated. It’s largely not experienced on the ground – there’s a lot of opportunity to use Trenton’s rich history to attract tourists and residents.”
As their city undergoes a renaissance, they hope their Fund plays a supportive role.
To contribute to the Trenton Arts Fund, visit www.pacf.org/donate.
